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Across Europe, countless churches stand as monuments of faith, history, and stunning craftsmanship. From contemporary creations to centuries-old sanctuaries, here are a selection of the most remarkable examples recommended by discerning visitors.

A Modernist Delight in the Norwegian Arctic

Commonly known as the Ishavskatedralen, the Tromsøysund parish church in northern Norway is a striking example of 20th-century design. The clean, graceful facade mirrors the nearby landscape and echoes historic Sami dwellings. Within, guests will find possibly the most comfortable church benches anyone could hope to sit on. One stunning mural of glass depicting Christ's Second Coming might not be for all tastes, but it radiates a powerful sense of grandeur. Leaving this impressive structure following an musical performance to see the northern lights flickering overhead is an unforgettable experience.

Serene Views and Historic Graves in the French Riviera

For a long time, I didn't grasp what visitors seek in churches. This monastery in Cimiez changed that.

The gardens filled with flowers and herbs offer a magnificent vista over the city. The cemetery on-site contains the resting place of painter Matisse, but it is the tiny sanctuary that truly embodies the spirit of a church. Although it would never compare to more ornate establishments, that is precisely its charm. For centuries, it has unobtrusively soaked up generations of belief. Being there evoked a sensation beyond mere calm or serenity; it was a profound realization of the comfort these places can provide.

Domes and Rotundas in Brescia, Italy

Nestled within a maze of piazzas and winding alleys, Brescia's Baroque Duomo Nuovo is a prime illustration of Italy's religious architecture, featuring exquisite marble and massive cupolas. However, the real gem of the complex is the Old Cathedral, finished in the 1100s. This medieval round church, with an underground vault, is brimming with history and atmosphere. Together, Brescia's cathedrals act as a microcosm of Italy's architectural evolution.

A Concrete and Stained Glass Wonder in Germany

South of Essen in the municipality of Neviges stands one of the world's most breathtaking religious buildings. Maria, Königin des Friedens, or the Neviges Pilgrimage Church, is a modernist masterpiece built between 1966 and 1968. Asymmetric galleries of concrete and stunning stained glass form a soaring, luminous space of welcome that challenges simple categorization as "cold". Adding to the allure of this less-visited location is the nearby 8-mile Wuppertaler Schwebebahn, an incredible feat of engineering.

Mountain Views from a Swiss Gothic Landmark

Perched high overlooking Lausanne, the Gothic cathedral offers views that extend from the picturesque old town all the way to the lake and the distant Alps. Entry to the cathedral is free, and for a small fee, you can ascend the bell tower. Beyond its impressive medieval structure and spectacular panoramas, this 800-year-old building hosts a diverse schedule of free performances, exhibits, and events, making it a key cultural hub in the nation's most vibrant cultural centre.

An Orkney Shrine Built by Italian Prisoners of War

Seeing the Italian Chapel in Orkney is a profoundly moving encounter with the skill and faith of its creators. In the 1940s, at the request of the chaplain, painter Chiocchetti and his comrades transformed a pair of military huts into a chapel. Using leftover materials of metal, wood, and paint, they created a beautiful sanctuary full of hope and serenity amidst a global conflict—an uplifting site to see decades on.

The Restless Gargoyles of Southern France

The rose-coloured stone cathedral in the town of Rodez dominates the skyline for miles around. Set on a hill overlooking the Aveyron River, this immense, fortress-like medieval wonder has survived centuries of construction, plague, and war. The interior is a gasp-inducing chamber of arched roofs and soaring columns, all framing a massive pipe organ. Its elaborately decorated pews and misericords are worn smooth by time. The true gaze, though, is frequently captured by the hypnotic stare of the hundreds of writhing gargoyles that appear to erupt from the exterior stonework. They seem less sculpted and more fossilised, like ancient guardians of this striking church.

Mysterious Beauty in an Oxfordshire Field

St Oswald's in this hamlet stands isolated in a meadow, accessible only by a rough footpath. Parking on a adjacent verge, you walk towards a structure that resembles a farm building from a distance. Its construction is primarily from the 13th century, but within, evidence of an earlier pre-Norman church can be seen. Archaeological digs have revealed ancient Roman tiles and fragments of medieval frescoes. Box pews from the 18th century are still in place. The overall atmosphere is one of haunting, beautiful, and potent stillness.

An Interior Canvas in Arbanasi, Bulgaria

Arbanasi, close to the historic city, is home to one of the most visually overwhelming Orthodox churches anyone could encounter. Externally, the Church of the Nativity is quite unassuming—a characteristic possibly designed to not attract suspicion during the period of Ottoman control. Its interior, in contrast, more than makes up for it. Every conceivable surface is adorned with vibrant Orthodox icons and biblical scenes. The effect is truly breathtaking and all-encompassing.

Featured Recommendation: Beautiful Windows in Kent, England

The small church in Tudeley, founded in the 12th century, is structurally quite ordinary. Its true glory, however, lies in its windows. All twelve were designed by the celebrated painter Chagall. The project began in 1963 with a memorial window in memory of a local couple's daughter. The artist was so taken with the site that he offered to design the other panes, a task completed in 1985. The windows showcase a magnificent spectrum of blue hues. Sitting amidst this sea of blue in a serene environment is a blissful experience. Entry to this unique place is gratis.